Electoral body deems internal elections normal despite isolated incidents

The Superior Electoral Justice Tribunal (TSJE) in Paraguay has characterized the ongoing internal party elections as generally proceeding normally, despite reports of violence and irregularities in several voting centers across the country. Carlos María Ljubetic, the Director of Electoral Processes, addressed the concerns, asserting that the incidents are minimal and do not reflect the overall electoral landscape.

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I consider that in general it is within normality. We have to understand that, out of 263 districts, there are four or five where there are abnormalities. But in this case, the abnormal is the news.

Ljubetic stated that out of 263 districts, only four or five experienced significant abnormalities, framing these as exceptions rather than the rule. "We have to understand that, out of 263 districts, there are four or five where there are abnormalities. But in this case, the abnormal is the news," he commented, suggesting that the vast majority of polling stations are functioning without issue.

He further elaborated on the operational status of the voting process, noting that over 99 percent of polling stations for the two largest parties are open. Minor issues, such as the delayed opening of a few tables in the Colorado Party and Liberal Party, are being resolved. Regarding allegations of tampered ballot kits, Ljubetic clarified that the TSJE is responsible for sealing the kits, and they are unsealed only to open the polling stations.

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We are the ones who seal the briefcases, and they are unsealed to open the tables. We will find complaints everywhere, because there are people who want to justify their electoral situation with complaints.

Concerns about the voting machines were also addressed. Ljubetic acknowledged a localized issue where 20 machines failed to start due to electrical installation problems, but this was rectified, and the machines then operated perfectly. He assured the public that contingency machines are available, ensuring that machine malfunctions will not impede the election process. "The machines are functioning perfectly in all locations," Ljubetic concluded.

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The machines are functioning perfectly in all locations.